Apple manufacturing plant hit by explosion

by Steven Mostyn - Dec 21 2011, 15:49

Given the onrushing consumer crush that Christmas always brings, we here at Tech Herald Towers would suggest that any prospective purchases of the hugely popular iPad be completed quickly.

However, that sage advice isn’t offered (just) because the festive clock is ticking, but also because an explosion at one of Apple’s manufacturing plants in China could cause a sudden shortage of the iconic tablet.

The blast in question, which occurred at Shanghai-based Ri-Teng Computer Accessory, left 27 workers hospitalized, injured a total of 60, and has become the focus of an official investigation.

Damage to the hardware factory was not especially serious, according to reports, but Apple’s retail supply rhythm is still expected to suffer aftershocks as a consequence.

Ri-Teng Computer Accessory, which is a subsidiary of Pegatron Corp., also crafts components for hardware giants such as Hewlett-Packard (HP), Dell and ASUSTeK.

“Our hearts go out to the people who were hurt…” commented Apple’s regional spokesperson Carolyn Wu. “We are working closely with Pegatron to understand the cause of this accident.”

While the investigation should uncover exactly what caused the explosion, Pegatron has said the blast’s focal point was centered on the plant’s dust collection machinery.

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